Problem statement
My boyfriend, Dan, is an avid cyclist who loves long-distance bike tours, but he often struggles to find affordable, safe, and community-oriented accommodations along his route. Traditional options like hotels or hostels are not only expensive but also fail to offer the local experiences and connections he seeks. This lack of suitable accommodations leads to inefficient trip planning, higher travel costs, and a less fulfilling experience.
This summer, Dan discovered a platform called Warmshowers and, although hesitant due to the lack of a free trial, he decided to pay the $30 upfront to give it a try. It seemed like a cheaper alternative, and he was curious to see how it worked. Unfortunately, once he started using the app, he quickly regretted his decision. The app was outdated, clunky, and incredibly difficult to navigate. It took him about 7 minutes just to set up his profile—something that should have only taken a few minutes.
Dan was disappointed because the idea behind Warmshowers was fantastic, but the user experience fell far short of expectations. Seeing how frustrating it was for him, I decided to take matters into my own hands and redesign the app.
I asked Dan to share his thoughts and feelings about his experience with the app and also reached out to a few other users to learn about their experiences. Additionally, I reviewed the feedback on the Apple App Store and was disappointed to see that many users were unhappy with the app.
Hypothesis
I realized that by improving a platform like Warmshowers, I could create a more intuitive and seamless way for cyclists like Dan to connect with local hosts offering free, cyclist-friendly accommodations—ultimately fostering cultural exchange and enriching their travel experience. In addition to that there can be few business outcome impacts such as:
User Retention and Satisfaction
By creating a more intuitive, user-friendly app, cyclists will experience a smoother and more enjoyable process when finding accommodations. This improved experience can lead to higher user retention, as users are more likely to continue using the platform if they find it easy and pleasant to navigate. Positive user experiences often translate into repeat usage, which is critical for the success of a platform based on community interaction
Expanded User Base
A more efficient and enjoyable experience can encourage greater interaction between cyclists and hosts, creating a more dynamic and engaging platform. With improved communication tools and easier access to relevant information, users are more likely to engage, fostering a stronger sense of community. Active communities are essential for the platform’s long-term success, as users feel more invested in supporting the network.
Higher Conversion Rates
With a better user experience, potential users are likely to feel more confident in paying for access to the platform. While the initial $30 payment for full access may be a barrier for some, a well-designed, easy-to-use app that aligns with their needs will make users feel the investment is worthwhile. This leads to higher conversion rates from free users to paying members, directly boosting revenue.
Increased Community Engagement
A well-designed app is more likely to attract new users. With an improved user interface and seamless navigation, potential users who may have hesitated before due to frustrations with the old version are more likely to give it a try. This expanded user base will result in more hosts and guests joining the platform, growing the Warmshowers community.
Enhanced Brand Reputation
An improved app will significantly enhance the brand’s reputation, making it known as a user-centric platform that truly understands the needs of cyclists. Word-of-mouth recommendations coupled with positive reviews can increase the platform’s visibility, attracting more users both from the cycling community and those interested in hosting.
Monetization and Partnerships
As the app grows and gains more users, the platform can explore new revenue streams. This could include premium features, partnerships with cycling gear companies, or even corporate sponsorships.
A better user experience positions the app as an attractive business opportunity for potential partners, increasing the platform’s potential for monetization.
Success metrics
We will know we’re on the right track if we observe:
1. Increased User Retention and Satisfaction
Retention Rate – Measure the percentage of users who continue using the app after their first visit (e.g., 30-day retention rate).
Net Promoter Score – Track how likely users are to recommend the app to others, indicating overall satisfaction.
User Satisfaction Score – Gather post-interaction feedback to assess how satisfied users are with the new app design and functionality.
2. Expanded User Base
New User Sign-ups – Track the number of new users joining the platform each month.
App Store Downloads – Monitor the increase in app downloads and installations, particularly after the redesign.
3. Higher Conversion Rates
Conversion Rate – Measure the percentage of free users who upgrade to the paid version after using the app.
Average Revenue Per User – Monitor how the redesigned app impacts revenue per user.
Increased Community Engagement.
Active Users – Track the number of active users engaging with the platform regularly (e.g., users logging in and interacting with hosts/guests weekly).
Interaction Rate – Measure the frequency of interactions between cyclists and hosts (messages exchanged, bookings made).
User Engagement in Forums/Reviews – Monitor the number of users participating in community discussions, reviews, or feedback submissions.
5. Enhanced Brand Reputation
App Store Rating – Track the app’s average rating in the app store, aiming for an increase in positive reviews.
Social Media Mentions – Monitor the number of social media mentions and positive discussions about the app.
Referral Rate – Measure how often existing users refer new users to the platform.
6. Differentiation from Competitors
Competitor Comparison – Track user feedback about Warmshowers versus other similar platforms (e.g., through surveys or app review comparisons).
Market Share Growth – Measure Warmshowers’ growth relative to other accommodation platforms for cyclists.
7. Potential for Monetization and Partnerships
Revenue Growth – Measure the overall increase in revenue from both new and existing users after the redesign.
Partnership Inquiries – Track the number of partnership inquiries or offers from cycling gear companies or other relevant brands.
Premium Feature Adoption – Track how many users adopt premium features (if introduced) post-redesign.
These success metrics will allow you to measure the impact of the redesigned app on user engagement, growth, satisfaction, and overall business performance.
The current design
The new design
lenakasaeva@hotmail.com